Motherboard Flash Memory Integration for Ready Boost

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing implementation of the 'Ready Boost' function in computer systems, which utilizes external USB storage devices for improved data processing efficiency, is inconvenient due to the need for constant connection and potential damage risks, especially in notebook setups, as it occupies a connection port and can be easily dislodged, reducing available ports and increasing the risk of damage or injury.

Innovation Solution

A storage device with flash memory and a controller, connected via a USB bus directly to the motherboard, acts as a virtual memory, allowing the CPU to access data through a USB bus, thereby supporting the 'Ready Boost' function and enhancing data access speed without the need for external storage devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If an external USB storage device is connected continuously to the computer, then the data access speed is improved and the Ready Boost function can be used, but a connection port is occupied and the number of available connection ports is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata access speedVSAvoidnumber of available connection ports
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the flash memory storage device directly into the computer system by mounting it inside the computer case and connecting it to the motherboard via a USB connector. This merging of the external storage device with the internal computer components eliminates the need for external port connections while maintaining the Ready Boost functionality and data access speed improvements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If an external USB storage device is connected continuously to the computer, then the Ready Boost function can be used, but the risk of damage or injury increases due to accidental dislodging

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveReady Boost function availabilityVSAvoidrisk of damage or injury
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the flash memory storage device from its external USB form factor and integrates it internally within the computer system. By taking out the storage device from the external environment and placing it inside the protected computer case, the risk of accidental dislodging, damage, or injury is eliminated while maintaining continuous connection for Ready Boost functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides protective measures by mounting the flash memory storage device securely inside the computer case, before any accidental events can occur. The internal mounting structure and enclosed case environment serve as beforehand protection against potential damage from kicks, drops, or other external hazards

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Productivity

If an external USB storage device is used for Ready Boost function, then data processing efficiency is improved, but the convenience of installation and removal is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing efficiencyVSAvoidconvenience of installation or removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the flash memory storage device with the computer system internally, merging what was previously a removable external device into an integrated component. This integration maintains the productivity benefits of Ready Boost while changing the installation/removal process to internal component mounting rather than external plug-and-play operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7899979B2Computer and built-in flash memory storage device thereof
Publication Date: 2011.03.01 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC
  • US7899979B2 patent drawing
  • US7899979B2 patent drawing
  • US7899979B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer comprises a mother board. A CPU, a chipset and a flash memory storage device are configured on the mother board. Wherein, the chipset is coupled to the CPU and coupled to the flash memory storage device through a USB bus, so that the CPU is able to access data stored on the flash memory storage device through the chipset.